James Kemball adds 16 Renault Trucks T480 Turbo Compounds to UK container fleet

Leading container transport specialist, James Kemball Ltd, has taken delivery of 16 new Renault Trucks T480 6x2 tractor units with highly-efficient Turbo Compound engines, further strengthening its 500-strong national container logistics fleet.

Operating from James Kemball’s Felixstowe base, the new vehicles will support UK-wide container distribution. Supplied by David Beecroft, Transport Solutions Executive, and handed over by Andy Wright, Fleet Solutions Manager at Renault Truck Commercials, the latest additions follow successful prior experience with Renault Trucks in the operation.

All vehicles are powered by Renault Trucks’ DE13 engine with Turbo Compound technology, designed to optimise fuel efficiency and performance. Turbo Compound provides increased torque, delivering improved engine responsiveness, an advantage for long distance work where consistent pulling power and fuel economy are critical.

Fuel-saving features include Renault Trucks’ Smart Torque Control solution that maximises the time spent in the zone with the best engine efficiency to deliver the required torque when needed, and Optivision Map-Based gear shift strategy for FUEL ECO that anticipates topography. Combined with ECO Cruise Control and Optiroll, the vehicles are primed for further control of fuel consumption.

The new vehicles are already making a strong impact, supporting the company’s high-volume container movements and reinforcing its reputation for dependable, cost-effective transport solutions. Stephen Baalham, Operations Director at James Kemball, commented: “This investment forms part of our continued focus on efficiency, reliability and sustainability. We selected the T480s with Turbo Compound for their fuel economy, the overall vehicle specification, combined with an attractive deal from Renault Truck Commercials.”

Each vehicle has been specified to a high standard, with driver comfort a key focus. Equipment includes four-point cab air suspension, heated and ventilated driver’s seat, air conditioning, memory foam mattress topper, fridge, microwave, and upgraded interior features to support comfort. Adjustable roof and side deflectors have been fitted to improve aerodynamic performance.

The T480s are also equipped with a comprehensive suite of driving assistance safety systems, including Advanced Emergency Braking System (AEBS), Forward Collision Warning and Adaptive Cruise Control.

“Fuel efficiency remains a key driver for our business. The early figures from these trucks are encouraging on longer journeys, and feedback from drivers has been equally positive – both in terms of comfort and drivability,” Stephen added.

Renault Trucks’ Optifleet fleet management system has been installed across all vehicles as part of the deal. The system provides a combination of fuel monitoring by vehicle and driver (Optifleet Check), driver activity card data and tachograph memory (Optifleet Drive), and vehicle tracking with route analysis (Optifleet Map), helping the business monitor and improve fleet performance in real time.

“Optifleet gives us a clear view of vehicle and driver performance across the fleet. Having instant access to key data across our fleet provides us with the right information at the right time, helping us to make better decisions and proactively manage performance, supporting our drivers and responding quickly and with confidence to operational challenges,” commented Stephen.

The trucks have been supplied on a repair and maintenance contract for maximum uptime, with vehicle maintenance provided by Renault Truck Commercials, Felixstowe. 

“The service we’ve received from Renault Truck Commercials has been first-class throughout," said Stephen. "From the initial sales process through to vehicle handover, ongoing operational support, and aftersales care, the team has been responsive, knowledgeable and professional. The repair and maintenance package provides added reassurance, and having work carried out locally at the Felixstowe dealer point ensures we maintain high levels of uptime across the fleet. It’s a partnership that gives us real confidence moving forward."